Car accidents involving buses can be more complicated than standard vehicle collisions. The involvement of public transportation, commercial vehicles, and different insurance policies adds layers of complexity. Understanding how insurance claims work in these situations helps ensure you receive fair compensation and a smooth claims process.
Multiple insurance policies at play
When a bus is involved in a car accident, several insurance policies may come into play. If the bus operates under a public transit agency or a private company, it likely carries commercial insurance. On the other hand, the car involved in the accident will have personal auto insurance. If the bus driver causes the accident, the bus’s insurance will cover the damages. However, if the car driver is at fault, their personal auto insurance will handle the claim.
Fault determination in bus accidents
Determining fault in a bus and car collision can be more complex because buses are subject to specific regulations, such as those from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The process for determining fault follows the same general principles as with any other car accident, but you need to consider additional factors.
These include whether the bus followed its route, whether the bus driver showed any negligence, and whether the bus was maintained properly. You can rely on evidence like traffic camera footage, eyewitness testimony, and accident reports to establish fault.
Claim process and compensation
After determining fault, you can begin the claims process by submitting an accident report to both the bus company’s insurance and your own insurer. In some cases, the bus company’s commercial insurance will cover vehicle damage, medical bills, and other related expenses.
If the car driver shares some fault, their personal auto insurance may also contribute to covering damages. In some cases, both parties may need to file claims through their insurers to ensure they cover all the necessary costs.
While car accidents involving buses may introduce complexities in the claims process, understanding how different insurers and liability factors interact helps streamline the process, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
